I've been going to this dentist for more than a year, since my old dentist's office went maskless and it seemed safer here (everyone wears masks except patients while they're getting cleanings or work). Michelle at the reception desk is extremely nice, and I *love* Irina the hygienist. I went to a different hygienist here at first who was less gentle and who told me that she thought I needed sedation dentistry to get through the deep cleaning Dr. Maggie Abadan recommended. But when it was time to get it, Irina was my hygienist, and assured me that she didn't think I needed to be sedated at all. She is extremely kind and gentle, and she has also inspired me to be more religious about flossing as well as using an interdental brush. I wish she worked more days! She helps me take much better care of my gums. My spouse is coming here now too. At first we were not sure whether we needed all the treatments being suggested - sometimes that's something a new dentist does to rake in $$. But it seems that we both needed what Dr. Maggie was suggesting, because of the state of our gums and because my husband had put off some treatments for a while. Dr. Maggie works carefully and so does her daughter (only my husband has gone to her - I've only seen Dr. Maggie). They also take Delta Dental here. I see that some people complained about billing, but they've explained it pretty well to me. Yes, if you do deep cleaning, Delta doesn't cover the laser on all the quadrants, but if you have periodontal disease it seems to be a good idea. And the cost of getting a ceramic crown over metal was also explained to me and I was able to choose. I'm just doing regular maintenance now during my every-3-month cleanings. Today was just $19 on top of what Delta covers for a regular cleaning with some deep-cleaning irrigation. I was bummed today that there were 3 people in the waiting room without masks. At the grocery store or anywhere else, if other folks are not masked, I can keep my mask on and still have some protection! But the dentist is the place I'm most vulnerable, since I have no choice but to take mine off. They said today there were special circumstances for one of the people without masks, but I'd like to see them enforce masking consistently, even if gently. I don't want to have to switch dentists and I've felt safe here before today. If this matters to you and you're considering coming here, please ask! read more

After walking into the office as a new patient, no one was at the reception desk, although I could see someone sitting in a back office. I waited a few minutes and called out for someone to come. A different person arrived who said nothing. After identifying myself, I was handed paperwork to complete even though they already had it, waited 25 minutes for a dental assistant to take X-rays and the hygienist to clean my teeth. When I returned for a second appointment, again, no one at the front desk, and that same person sitting in a back office who looked at me, yet said nothing. One minute later, a man walked in, that same back office person apparently looked at him, came out to greet him with a smile, and asked if he was here for his appointment. Billing was inconsistent and faulty, since the billing person wasn't there most days, and expected payment before billing my insurance, contrary to insurance guidelines. My negative experience is similar to the many other negative posts. read more

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 3/4/2026 After deciding to leave Gentle dentistry, I requested to refund the remaining credits on my account from the Invisalign treatment. I requested a refund during an office visit on 11/5/2025 and again via phone on 12/17/2025, but I have not yet received the refund. Another reason to stay away from Gentle dentistry. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 3/31/2026 Still haven't received my refund check. Sent another email to the office today. Let's see how they care about their (previous) customers. read more

I had a $1,200 veneer done at Gentle Dentistry, which later cracked. I called them since it's an emergency. Mira initially said she'd call back in 20 minutes, but hours passed without any follow-up. After multiple calls and even visiting the office in person, I was told I was no longer considered an "active" patient and therefore not eligible for warranty coverage--something I was never informed of when I had the procedure done. When I requested copies of my records (with a doctor's signature for proof), they refused. left me sitting there waiting and then=====!!!!!!called the police!!!!!!=======, accusing me of trespassing. Only after the police arrived and I calmly explained the situation did they finally provide the signed documents--though notably, not signed by a doctor, but by a manager. That's enough to tell that they are NOT confident with their own service quality at all. This experience left me really shocked beyond words. They literally just do not care about the patients at all. When you are "inactive", they abandon you without any mercy. Be cautious--this office seems more focused on billing than on patient care or accountability. And you are even risking to be arrested only by asking for your own records. read more

My wife and I want to switch dentists for insurance coverage reasons. I went to Gentle Dentistry and was/am very disappointed. They seemed to have little interest in doing good dental work and more interest in making money - a dental factory. Very disappointing and we will not be customers jim read more

To sum up the simple x-ray, exam, and cleaning visit: * The x-ray machine wouldn't work, the hygienist needed to call for technical support. * Entering the teeth pocket measurements wouldn't work, the computer wasn't allowing it. * The worst was the cleaning. The rotating polisher against my lips caused them to bleed. And now I have a gash on my lip. The hygienist thought it was "weird" that that happened. Yes, they try to sell you a lot of stuff that the insurance won't pay for. And yes, they overcharge. read more

If I could give negative stars I would. I love to promote great service but this is not the case here. I gave this practice 10 months to resolve my complaints and nothing has happened, they charged me twice for services that were "accidentally billed" but they never reversed the charges so my insurance company paid them for services they would not suppose to. It's near impossible to talk to a biller and it seems like they don't even have one anymore, from what I was told... Not only does this place bill wrong, they don't solve problems and they pressure sales you here. You go in thinking you are doing pretty great with your dental situation, then they convince you you need invisalign, deep cleaning (with numbers that are no way accurate, I even took them to my dentist friend who could not believe the inaccuracy, for my entire life I have had outstanding teeth/gums until I went here). I have never in my life been told I need anything, I have always left my dentist feeling so great about my teeth, gums and overall check up but this place create problems and tries to "scare" you into doing something or else you will have major problems.I was told my face and cheeks are going to start to "cave in" if I don't get Invisalign. It's clear they are a pressure sales kind of dentist, offering free service for your first visit but then charges your insurance anyway and never fixes the problem. Not only will the hygienist pressure sales you, the dentist will too. I will go back to my old dentist who does not take insurance anymore (which is why I switched in the first place). I would much rather pay my awesome old dentist then then go to an "in network" dentist that makes you feel awful when you walk out the door. I also prefer the same dental hygienist however this place has high turnover and high staff turnover, another red flag. Even the current front office person who is very nice gets complaints daily and is already leaving after a two weeks. Save your time and don't go here, not even with that free dental coupon you get in the mail.... read more

I don't recommend this place to anyone. I was lied to on two separate occasions. We had the price and full plan clearly documented, but now they're suddenly changing the price and claiming I asked for something removable instead of permanent--when I made it very clear what I wanted. read more

Overcharged me saying this was what insurance charges (w HMO) but never filed any claims. Found out after the fact that more than half of what I was charged I shouldn't have been. Filled out form asking for all my records back during Spring Break and half a year later was only sent my last x ray. No proof of all that was done or what I was charged. read more

Charges not accurate. Awful scheduling , bill insurance for payment when no appointment. Overcharge on statements. Had a regular clean , then wanted me deep clean last minute. Waste of time . read more

Fillings, crowns The team is so professional, I had bad experience with other dentists because they over charge you so I had so many questions about billing but Myra and Michelle helped me so kindly. Dr. Abadan herself is such a great dentist. She is so meticulous and kind, always communicating with the patient during the procedure. I just always get a good feeling from her, I trust her and she is absolutely awesome! read more

I Left several voicemails to inquire about becoming a new patient.....they never return calls really horrible can you imagine going to a dental office that wont return calls and your not even a patient yet ? They are sending out flyers in the mail to attract new patients.... Maybe they have to many patients already so they cannot check voicemails ( LOL). But why send out flyers? Or maybe they need patients and thats why they are sending out the flyers but maybe they cannot return phone calls so thats why they are looking for new patients ! Who really knows ! (LOL) Look elsewhere !!!! Glad I found a new dentist Whos office returns calls and it isn't this one! read more

Gentle Dentistry - Flyer - General Dentistry Near Me - San Diego, California

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Update to my prior reviews about the overcharging in this office. After Dr Pedram upsetting me and not listening to me about the excess billing, I received a check today from my insurance company for the $1,550 for the amount over charged by Dr. Pedram's office. She overcharged me by more than 50%. I don't expect receiving an apology this seems to be the way she runs her practice. I am still pursuing having the CA Dept of insurance and my insurance company review this office's billing practices, so no other patients have to go through what I did. read more

Mozghan, no one went over what you mentioned in your response. In fact, I called your office 5-6 times and asked for your owners to call me to discuss other options and I was told by your office manager and front office staff that there no other options. I do see other reviews where other patients have been having the same issues. In fact, I 100% believe that the dentist purposely drilled into my daughter's teeth to create nerve issues so you could make money off root canals and other things that were unnecessary! My new dentist has also told me your office did not fill the cavities correctly and there were several that I had to have them refill which has ended up costing me thousands after what you already robbed me from. As you know, my insurance only covers fillings once per year on the same tooth. You should not be in business! read more

Gentle Dentistry - General Dentistry Near Me - San Diego, California

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I chose Gentle Dentistry because I wanted procedures to be as gentle as possible as I really don't like going to a dentist. I'm glad I chose them because they really are gentle. I have gone to a lot of dentists in Japan and NYC to compare, but I personally think Dr. Abadan and the team are the best I have ever had. So far I've had a root canal, a crown and a filling done by them, and I can't complain about anything. Yes, first I was a little alarmed by the estimated cost for all the work (including deep cleaning), but the more research I did, the more convinced I became that the estimate was honest and pretty reasonable. They are very organized and the office has great atmosphere. COVID-19 protocol is very diligent, in my opinion. read more

Friendly Staff. Honest practice with Fair pricing. Not too pushy and work is top notch

Could not have had a better experience. Everybody was so friendly and they did a great job at making sure nothing hurt too much. They also did everything in a very timely manner. Highly recommend this place. read more

This place is just amazing. Every experience I, my wife, and my kids have had here has been incredible. We have had everything done from routine cleanings and fillings to crowns and deep cleanings. All have gone off without a hitch! The staff is so nice, and the office is so clean and welcoming!!!! Not gonna lie- going to the dentist isn't my favorite thing in the world, but the folks here just make it that much more pleasant!!! read more

High pressure sales, quality work. This office attracts new customers by accepting HMO insurance - so much time was spent selling us on periodontal work and braces that we left the office spinning; we were told my husband needed $20,000 of periodontal work and I needed $5000 of braces, but not to worry about the cost because they are happy to finance. The periodontal scaling performed was professional and probably needed but unfortunately it was only partially covered by our insurance. The two crowns provided are fitting well (after two adjustment re-visits). To give them one more opportunity to continue as a client, I scheduled a follow up routine cleaning that I expected to be covered by our Insurance. Join Arrival for our appointment, I was unhappy to be informed that our cleaning couldn't be covered because we were now "periodontal patients" and the fee would be $100 for each of us. After speaking with a couple of the staff we found this policy wasn't negotiable, so we walked out. My subsequent phone call to the doctor was not returned. I then spent considerable time looking for a new dental office and we had our first visit today. Amazingly, they didn't report a need for any periodontal work or the braces. Hold onto your wallet if you visit this office. read more

Read the negative reviews about under quoting and upselling. This dental office is a scam. My last service with them was in Feb, and after I advised them that I was changing to another dentist, in June I get an invoice for $500 they say insurance didn't cover. Why was this not checked prior to the service? Why did it take 4 months for me to find out about this? Why was I never given the right to decline the service which I would have done had I have known the cost upfront. Additionally, the reasons for my leaving included the rudeness of the staff, much higher rate for services like Invisalign and upselling for Periodontal services. Avoid them like the plague!!! read more

Walked in for an emergency root canal because my insurance listed this as my primary dentist. I was excited because Dr. Abadan did really quality work. However they told me my insurance didn't cover the (standard) procedure and didn't even try to submit the charges...last thing I was thinking about after 5 hours of drilling/etc. In reviewing my dental plan and talking to my insurance company all of this should have been completely covered. I went in for a follow up and was pressured into orthodontics and told I needed to make a decision asap. When I asked about alternatives like a night guard, I was told that while I needed one it wouldn't be something they could if I didn't decide to get some kind of orthodontics right then and there. Two stars because it really was quality work and the staff is excellent but I'm very, very unhappy about the insurance situation and being pressured into buying other services. Not what I was looking for! Very sad they won't be my primary dentist after all. read more

This dentist practice should pay for ALL my dental work I need to get fixed because of them. I came in cavities and left 7 hours laters with 3 root canals. I've been to 2 other dentists since and they were confused as to why I got them. I just went to a Endodontics and they even said they heard nothing but bad things about Gentle Dentistry. Thanks to gentle dentistry they didn't even properly do my root canal so now I have an infection as well as possible an extraction. Maggie was so mean to me, she got upset when I was awake and crying during the procedure saying "pressure good. Pain bad. Why are you upset?" My brain honestly tries to block out that horrible day. It felt rushed and aggressive. The medication they gave to calm me down only made me more anxious, stressed, and left me feeling in and out the entire time. I now have literal panic attacks when going to the dentist because of these people. They owe my mom $8,000+ for root canals I didn't even need and they owe me therapy because I literally have PTSD from this horrible experience that I would never wish upon anyone. Oh and to keep me from probably saying anything, they gave me a free teeth whitening. I will never return here and I will proudly bash their name for the trauma they caused me. read more

I hadn't visited the dentist in quite some time because of a few bad experiences and the general pain of trying to find a new one. I started here because of the good reviews and the fact that they take Care Credit. Knowing that my absence was likely to mean I'd have some dental issues to resolve meant that I didn't balk at the incredibly expensive treatment plan they suggested, making it sound like it was dire that I get it fixed immediately. Several hours, a sore mouth (the dentist kept pinching my lip between her hand and my teeth over and over - so much for "gentle"), and a lot of dollars later, I left the office "knowing" I'd have another $2K in dental work ahead of me. As I left, they said they wanted to schedule a follow up visit to make sure the cavities that were filled and that it would be a much shorter visit - in and out. Well, that wasn't what happened. Upon my second visit, a periodontist comes in, and starts asking me a billion questions and talking to me about the importance of gums. Then he proceeds to tell me he is about to perform a periodontal exam - one that I had not been told would be performed and that I had no time for. I asked if there was a charge for the exam, he said probably, but he didn't know, and also told me that the original quote for wisdom teeth removal originally provided was no longer going to be honored because the doctor had decided that I needed to get it done out of office. Which was frustrating because I had specifically set up a Flexible Spending Account based on that total. I left frustrated and very clearly realizing that this place was not out to take care of their patient's dental health, but to foist expensive services off on their clients instead. This was further evidenced when, after choosing a different dentist, he was in complete shock over the work they had done as well as the work they told me I needed. The cavities he filled he said that he could have done for a sixth of the price and they would have held as long, if not longer. Additionally, the periodontal exam was a stark contrast between Gentle Dentistry and my new dentist. At the end of my appointment with him, my dental plan was simply a cleaning in six months. Which means that the $2K I set aside in the FSA is basically useless and I'm going to be buying $2K in bandaids on the FSA store to make up for it. While they were all certainly friendly, there's a balance between proactive dental care and conservative dental care and I feel this office steps far outside the bounds of proactive, hedging on unnecessary. read more

After not going to the dentist for YEARS because of anxiety and past experiences, I came here. It was the wheat experience! Not only is it clean but all the staff are so knowledgeable and helpful. It felt like home. They also offer you water, blankets and snacks for your comfort. I will continue to be a patient for as long as I can. What a wonderful experience! read more

I have had quite a number of procedures over the last 6 months and I am much overdue for a review. In short, Dr. Abadan and her staff always ensure that you are well taken care of. I have always feared going to the dentist due to the pain, unknowingness of what I'm going into, and billing issues but the entire staff always take a proactive approach in addressing all of my concerns every visit. From learning every step of what will happen, to breaking down and coordinating payment (and plans), the staff do an amazing job in providing a hassle-free experience. From my procedures, Dr. Abadan has never failed to amaze me at the quality of the dental work she provides. She will always take the extra time to ensure that your teeth are in better shape than before. My Gentle Dentistry experience has always been wonderful. I highly recommend Gentle Dentistry for all of your dental needs and concerns. They are the best! read more

Gentle Dentistry - Dr. Abadan, the caring staff, and me before my new crown! - General Dentistry Near Me - San Diego, California

I have been coming to Dr Abadan's office for almost 9 years now. The office staff have always been friendly and helpful. Myra and now Suzana are very pleasant. I always schedule follow up visits when I finish my current visit and I can always count on Myra to call and remind me. Either Myra will call and remind me but they also use text message reminders about a week in advance to confirm appointments - this is very helpful to someone who sometimes forgets about appointments. The hygienists are great, full of conversation and I always leave happy with smooth and clean teeth. Dr Abadan is the best. She takes care of mine and my daughter's teeth. I never feel pressured and better yet I always feel that I can trust the advice she gives me. All around this is a great office for complete dental care!! I recommend it to all of my friends in the area. read more

Gentle Dentistry - General Dentistry Near Me - San Diego, California

This is my favorite dentist! (^-^)v I have been coming here for 7 years and half. I found this place because I was looking for a dentist has "Lumineers" and I got them here! Now I really can smile and show my beautiful teeth in front of strangers! (^-^)/ I continue to maintain my teeth here! Dr. "Maggie" Abadan is an excellent dentist and always gives me great recommendations for my teeth. She really knows how to take care of her clients make them happy! Mayra who is a receptionist is a sweet person and a great communicator, and Kim who is a hygienist always cleans my teeth to keep beautiful, and also Maggie who is a dental assistant takes care of me well. I do not have any complains about this place. They are really awesome and they always make me happy! (^o^)/ I highly recommend you to have their treatments! I am sure you will be very happy like me! \(^-^)/ read more

Very positive experience in my first two visits. First visit was check up and consultation and second visit was two crowns. Staff was all very friendly, professional, transparent, and helpful. I felt like I had a good basis of knowing what was going on with my teeth, the cost of work, and plan ahead. Overall, I have been to lots of dentists over the years, and I recommend this office- great experience and happy to keep going here. read more

I moved to San Diego about a year ago and put off finding a dentist because it's so hard to find the right fit. Then in pain & desperation, after doing my research, I called Gentle Dentistry. Suzana was amazing, reassuring, and fit me in right away to get the shots I needed for my jaw. Very few dentists do the shots for TMJ. Yay! Huge relief, so grateful. Now six months later, I needed teeth repaired and a new night guard. Hadeel was so sweet and took care of me and fit my new night guard perfectly. Just picked it up! When you need dental work, it's so hard, so I really appreciate finding a new office here and a great team to take care of me. Highly recommend. They are experts and know what they're doing and genuinely care. read more

Gentle Dentistry - General Dentistry Near Me - San Diego, California

My father has been a dentist for over 30 years and I only see other dentists because he is located in Northern California. Gentle dentistry tried to up sell a bunch of procedures that my husband and I didn't need and that insurance of course doesn't cover. Wanting to refill old fillings that look great and some laser cleaning as well. They weren't pushy, but it just felt a little dishonest in my opinion. They also charged us a $30 fee for "protective equipment" little disposable socks that go over your shoes which costs like no money and left a bad taste in my mouth. They were very nice though, I'll give them that, but unfortunately we won't be coming back. read more

I felt very welcomed the first time I entered the office. I got my SRP aka deep cleaning done here. It's a treatment to treat my gum infection. Majority of us have it. They educated me on infection and they treated it in two visits. I like the way Laura did my treatment. It was easy and paknleMy favorite girls are the front office staff. They are so nice and welcoming!!! read more

Gentle Dentistry - Front office ladies - General Dentistry Near Me - San Diego, California

I came to Gentle Dentistry because I was unhappy with the way my smile was and how a lot of gums showed whenever I smiled. Dr. Abadan performed a pain free laser gum contouring procedure on me and I couldn't be happier with the results!! When I called the office to schedule the appointment the receptionist was very sweet over the phone and accommodated with my work schedule to get me an appointment. My appointment was for a consult to discuss my options with the doctor. When I arrived, I immediately fell in love with this office. It's not like any other office, everyone was so genuinely kind to me and was very attentive. Dr.Maggie was very warm and very knowledgeable. She discussed with me my options and how Laser gum contouring is a very quick and painless procedure and that I would get immediate results. Even though I had just met her, I immediately trusted her and her staff and asked to get the procedure done the same day. The procedure was painless like promised and the results were immediate! My gums turned out exactly how I wanted them to and now I cannot stop smiling!! It has now been a week since the procedure and my gums are healed and look very healthy! Thank you so much Dr. Maggie for giving me the results I always dreamed of! I am so happy with this office and so thankful that I have found you guys! I highly recommend everyone to come here for all their dental needs! read more

Gentle Dentistry - General Dentistry Near Me - San Diego, California

I really appreciate how organized the staff is and also accommodating. My gums needed attention and the hygienist came up with a plan that's working really well. I know I made the right choice when I chose Gentle Dentistry. read more

Everything about this place is hands down the best dental experience I've had in my life. Dr A. and her staff are so kind and compassionate and provide excellent care. They always check in with me after a procedure and are extremely responsive to all my questions and concerns, and they put effort into making sure I'm comfortable and calm. I can't express how much I appreciate the team at Gentle Dentistry. read more

The receptionists are really nice and thoughtful. She gave me headphones and essential oils to relax before I had 2 crowns and a root canal. Dr. Maggie is awesome!! She quickly and painlessly replaced 2 crowns and did a last minute root canal. I had one of the last appointments, so I know she probably went home late just to finish me. I can't recommend this place enough. read more

I absolutely love coming to Gentle Dentistry! They are truly the best in the business. I accidentally came one day early for my appointment and instead of turning me away, they quickly accommodated me and I was still seen right away by the amazing Dr. Pedram!! I couldn't believe it! Most businesses wouldn't even attempt to fit you in but at Gentle Dentistry they always do their best to help you out! I seriously love the whole Gentle Dentistry staff. They always make me feel so welcome and really care about your dental health. read more

What a great experience, the staff was extremely friendly and professional. They laid out an action plan to help me figure it out. Thanks so much I will be certain to return . Highly recommend this dentist read more

Gentle Dentistry - General Dentistry Near Me - San Diego, California

Such a nice HMO dentist. Myra, Suzanna, Baraa Hadeel, and Dr Maggie are great people and very professional. Crown, filling, cleaning, they do it all. Thank you!. read more

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Actually zero stars! When they see you have good insurance, they fraudulently bill for things you did not receive. First initial appointment: xrays, exam, perio charting and "regular" cleaning should not be over $1,000.00. I was in and out in less than 45 minutes.They billed my insurance for a deep cleaning without my knowledge. A deep cleaning takes longer than 45 minutes!, You need to be anesthetized in quadrants, they didn't do that! They did a regular above the gum cleaning! Subsequent cleanings were billed as periodontal maintenance and I had to pay copays! All my numbers were 2's and 3's and I do not bleed at all because I floss minimum 2x a day! This is not periodontal disease. This is FRAUD! I am extremely upset with their fraud! I didn't realize this until I showed a friend of mine the claim on my insurance website. Do not go here! They will rip you and insurance off! QUESTION EVERYTHING THEY DO! ASK FOR AN ITEMIZED BILL AND CALL YOUR INSURANCE FOR PREAUTHORIZATION AND EXPLANATION FIRST! read more

Insurance changed this year so had to find a new dentist. We were assigned Gentle Dentistry so off I went. I just finished a follow-up appointment, so I feel I've had two good experiences in the office. Pros - very nice staff and dentist. Everyone of them super friendly. My hygienist did a great job on all aspects of cleaning. The dentist went over some things she felt I could use in addition, that I opted out of. Billing was spot on with my insurance, and they were happy to answer my questions about insurance (which checked out). Little to no wait time int he lobby. Office super clean. Cons - be ready for the "up-sell" and don't be afraid to say I'll check that out and get back to you. Nothing's an emergency in a dental office (well, almost nothing). My thought is that this is a stand-alone dentist with all the latest equipment and she's got to use it to pay for it. I'm sure in some instances it's needed, but not in my case. I politely declined all extra recommendations and went home and did a little homework to make sure I made the right choices. And last: do not confuse this office with the "Gentle Dentist" franchises. Not the same - way better, cleaner, nicer people here, etc. read more